Can he be a functioning "Machine" again?

EL SEGUNDO -- Sasha Vujacic might not yet have recaptured the hearts of Lakers fans from one useful performance, but the wordsmiths who make up the New York Times crossword puzzle remember Vujacic's glory very well.

From the Thursday edition of the Times: "_____ Vujacic of the Los Angeles Lakers who is nicknamed 'The Machine.' "

Vujacic and Jordan Farmar finished the game well Tuesday night against Golden State, which was encouraging given the inconsistency of the Lakers' reserves this season. About the bench, Phil Jackson said Thursday: "Those guys should be ready to play 30 seconds or 30 minutes, regardless. That's part of the job when you're there."

One of the bench options, forward Josh Powell, was out Thursday with an upper respiratory infection and is listed as doubtful for the Sacramento game. Another one, Adam Morrison, was blaring Metallica in the weight room.

User Agreement

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial
slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about
tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to
allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to
republish your name and comment in additional Register publications
without any notification or payment.